My CEO 376

376 Life Finally Works (Jayden)

The Nexus jet is smooth and steady as it slices through the clouds, with Viktor sitting across from me, his usual calm demeanor just a touch more relaxed than usual.

I can't help but feel a rush of excitement about the future. Everything is falling into place here in Brussels- the kids are adjusting, Winona seems at ease for the first time in a long time, and the cottage feels like it was made for us.

I can't remember the last time things felt... normal. As If, maybe, this could be our life, no huge shadows from the past ready to crash over us.

"I have to say," I start, turning toward Viktor, "the staff BBQ was perfect."

"agree.

"They all seemed genuinely happy to be there. Now, with the diplomats' welcome party coming up, I can feel like we're... part of something here."

Viktor nods, a hint of a smile on his face. "It's a unique environment," he says. "But it works because you and Winona are making it your own."

"It's starting to feel like home," I admit. "Moving to the cottage is only going to make that even more real. But, you know," I lean back, scratching the back of my neck, "but I hadn't planned to stay long term." "It's a big decision.

"I realize my decisions don't just affect my family. They affect everyone who works for Gus and for Nexus, everyone who's given their lives to make this it all run smoothly."

"Precisely," Viktor says, his voice measured.

"Nexus Global aside, I think moving from the main house will leave some displacement. Just the kitchen staff alone..."

"As much as they're excited to see you all settle into the cottage, there's... an expectation. Many of them assume they'll be moving in along with you."

I glance over, surprised. "To the cottage? We'd never all fit."

Viktor smiles.

"I hadn't thought of that. I mean, it's a house. For my family. Not the army of staff who've been there for... what, decades?"

"Some of them, yes.

people busy? Gus was alone there, but he spent a lot of time

says, folding his hands thoughtfully. "But he kept the staff employed by using the place for tours,

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376 Life Finally Works

ballroom can host many for special events.

I need to find something for them to

transition some to other roles. There's a respect that

look at him. "How

loyal to you, to your family. But there is also a deep loyalty among the staff for each other. They're like

shake things up, they've already sacrificed so much to keep this place running, even when Gus didn't need them. But I can't justify

the idea of using the place as a tourist stop, for events and the gardens. That makes sense to me. It has history and

brought to you, so you can understand. The mansion

do. What's the best way to handle it without losing that loyalty, that sense of family they have? I don't

already made strides by showing them respect, by involving them in a family gathering and welcoming them to be part of your

"Okay."

even if they're not in the mansion." He continues, "The entire staff at the estate are invaluable in planning and executing events and

through. "You're right. I'll talk to Winona and she can talk to each of them. Decide what we need at the cottage. With us down there, the main mansion and grounds can be that tourist

space.

new family to them, Jayden. You're... hope, of a sort. Many have been waiting for change

family visit we talked about? The kids would love to see

at the mention. "It would be an honor. They'd be thrilled to host all

"I can find

fitted out. They'll jump at

test run."

+25 BONUS

376 Life Finally Works

generous

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